Indigestion

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia is a stomach problem. Indigestion can cause heartburn due to stomach acid reflux. It also irritates esophagus. Indigestion leaves a bitter or sour taste in the mouth. Indigestion is a term used to describe symptoms that include fullness and discomfort during or after a meal. There may also be a pain or burning in the upper abdomen. Indigestion occurs commonly in adults. Some people may even experience indigestion every day. Indigestion is also referred to as dyspepsia. Experts maintain that indigestion is actually a symptom and not a disease. There can be several causes of indigestion. These include gall bladder problems, stomach ulcers and GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Indigestion is often aggravated when certain foods or drinks are consumed. Therefore a person’s lifestyle is also responsible for triggering indigestion. Some of the other causes of indigestion include eating too quickly or eating too much. Consumption of foods that are oily and spicy can lead to indigestion because such foods are difficult to digest. Foods such as chocolate, coffee and carbonated beverages are known to worsen indigestion. Individuals who experience considerable stress and tension may also be prone to indigestion. This is because stressful conditions can affect the digestive system. Indigestion may sometimes be the result of gastritis or stomach inflammation. Other medical conditions such as inflammation of the pancreas and stomach cancer can also be responsible for indigestion. Intake of certain medications such as steroids and antibiotics could also lead to side effects such as indigestion. People who consume alcohol excessively may experience severe indigestion. Those who smoke regularly are also at risk for chronic indigestion. In some cases, indigestion may occur without any symptoms or definite causes. This is known as functional dyspepsia wherein the stomach’s ability to digest food is hampered due to unknown reasons. On account of this, the stomach is unable to move the partially digested food to the small intestine. Indigestion may be acute or chronic depending on the causative factors. The most common signs of indigestion include flatulence or formation of gas, nausea, fullness and uneasiness. There may also be pressure and discomfort around the chest region.

Indigestion Symptoms

Following are the symptoms of indigestion Pain in belly, Nausea, Bloating of stomach, Uncontrolled burping, Heartburn, Flatulence, Acid regurgitation

Indigestion Causes

Following are the causes of indigestion Fast eating without chewing properly, Heavy meal, Consuming excess alcohol, Smoking, Pregnancy, Peptic ulcer, Stress and anxiety Anti-inflammatory drugs, Changes in lifestyle, Diseases that affect digestive organs. Indigestion can be alleviated by consuming smaller frequent meals during the day instead of three large meals. Meals must also be low-fat and the food must be consumed slowly. Avoiding consumption of carbonated drinks, caffeinated beverages and alcohol also helps to ease indigestion and is one of the first steps towards indigestion cure. Those who quit smoking often find a marked improvement in digestion. Medications that cause irritation to the lining of the stomach such anti-inflammatory medication must be stopped and necessary consultation with your doctor would be required. One should also improve one’s lifestyle by getting sufficient rest and sleep. Stress and anxiety must be alleviated through relaxation or yoga exercises. Those with chronic or severe indigestion must consult a doctor even if they are using natural remedies for indigestion. Certain medications or over-the-counter drugs may be administered which help to reduce the production of acid in the stomach. Some medications also enable the stomach to pass the food particles faster into the small intestine. It is important to take non-prescription medications only according to the specified dosage and for the stipulated duration of time. It is also advisable to consult a doctor even before taking non-prescription drugs. In severe cases, where medication does not help, the doctor may recommend certain laboratory tests such as blood tests, x-ray and stool examinations. Based on the results of such tests, medication or antibiotics may be recommended. The treatment and cures for indigestion depends wholly on the underlying cause. Therefore treatment varies from patient to patient. Therefore it is advisable to avoid taking indigestion medication without medical supervision.

Remedies for Acid Indigestion

To prevent acid indigestion put some lemon juice or cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it before the meal. Acid indigestion remedies and the variety of home remedies for indigestion can serve as an effective cure for indigestion, particularly during pregnancy. Home remedies for indigestion and heartburn aren’t just useful while pregnant, but can also be used in indigestion treatment in kids and babies. The most important aspect of any natural cures for indigestion would involve a specific diet for indigestion. An indigestion diet would be the most effective indigestion remedy to cure indigestion naturally in kids, babies, adults or during pregnancy. In addition to changes to your diet it is also important to make modifications to your lifestyle for any natural remedy for indigestion to be effective. Herbs have long been used in the treatment of various ailments and there are some very effective herbal remedies for indigestion. There are also many natural treatments for indigestion. Simple home remedies have been used down the ages to tackle digestion problems and provide relief. These remedies make use of natural ingredients and hence there is a lower risk of any side effects. One such beneficial home remedy for indigestion can be made with lemon, ginger and honey and can even be used during pregnancy. Combine a teaspoon of lemon juice, a teaspoon of ginger juice and two teaspoons of honey. Mix well and consume for quick relief from indigestion. You can also add one tablespoon of lemon juice to a cup of warm water and consume before meals. This helps to prevent problems in digestion. Indigestion can also be alleviated by gently rubbing a few ice cubes over the abdominal area. Another effective remedy for indigestion is baking soda and water. Combine equal quantities of baking soda and water for instant relief from digestion related problems. Cumin seeds are known to work well in treating indigestion. Add a teaspoon of cumin seeds to warm water and consume the mixture after straining. You can also extract the juice from a teaspoon of coriander leaves, add some salt and drink twice daily. Coriander juice may also be added to fresh buttermilk to cure indigestion. Many people also obtain relief from indigestion by eating half a teaspoon of aniseed. To avoid indigestion, sprinkle some salt on a piece of ginger and chew on it before meals. Cinnamon water may also be consumed an hour after meals in order to ease indigestion. Herbal teas are known to be beneficial in reducing indigestion. Teas such as ginger, lavender, raspberry and chamomile are known to help in easing stomach problems. Mint essence may also be added to water and consumed every three hours. Mint juice can be even be added to honey and lemon juice. This can be consumed daily after meals. To avoid indigestion, it is important to do some light physical activity such as taking a walk after meals. One must also never lie down or sleep immediately after a meal. When pregnant it is necessary that you discuss and decide your pregnancy indigestion remedies along with your doctor so as to avoid any complications that could result from the same.

Other Remedies

Every 3 to 4 hours drink water with 2 to 3 drops of mint essence in it. Massage your stomach with a mixture of 2 to 3 drops of garlic oil and half a cup of Soya oil. Ginger tea after meal promotes digestion. Herbal tea prepared using blackberry, raspberry, mint and camomile is effective for indigestion. Take one glass of honey and lemon juice, both mixed in equal quantity. For instant relief add some baking soda to one glass of water and drink it.

Indigestion Diet

Avoid large meals, take small and frequent meals. Increase water intake and drink herbal tea. Abstain from smoking and alcoholic beverages. Avoid tea, coffee and other drinks that contain caffeine. Avoid hot spicy and fatty foods. Restrict intake of chocolates.

Other Suggestions for Indigestion

Avoid wearing tight clothes. Take at least 30 minutes walk daily. Decrease your stress level by relaxing. Do not play active sports immediately after meal. Regular exercise is good for digestive system. Eat your meals on time and chew them properly.